Albion High School seniors watched a crash simulation on Friday morning, warning about the dangers of drunk driving before they attend prom in the evening.
Senior classmates Myles Miller, Rowan Ford, Jeffrey Brown, Leah Kania and Hannah Coolbaugh portrayed prom attendees involved in an accident that took the life of one of their own due to the poor decision of driving under the influence. The “deceased” student’s father, Tracy Ford, also provided an effective performance. The simulation was made complete with an arraignment held for the driver in the LGI that mimicked a court appearance.
The simulation would not be possible without the assistance of many, including the Albion Police Department, Albion Fire Department, COVA, Orleans County Coroner Scott Schmidt, Orleans County District Attorney Joe Cardone, First Assistant District Attorney Susan Howard and Albion Town Justice Joe Fuller. Additional thanks goes to Gallos Performance Auto for providing the two vehicles and GCASA for presenting information for the students.
The high school has staged the simulation for many years but it wasn’t able to take place during the pandemic. The real-life portrayal helps show the irrevocable damage that can happen after making one seemingly small decision. During the presentation, students were reminded of the Good Samaritan Law and that police officers are there to help lives, not harm them, and that they should always call 911 if a friend is in danger.
With prom, graduation parties and college life ahead, the school hopes students remember to stay safe and make smart decisions.
